Priming is one of the most important yet often overlooked steps in the painting process. While it might seem tempting to skip straight to colour, using the right primer ensures smoother coverage, stronger adhesion, and longer-lasting results. So, should you always prime before painting? Here’s what to know before you pick up your brush or roller.
What is primer and why is it important?
Primer is a preparatory coating applied before paint to create a uniform, sealed surface. It improves paint adhesion, prevents stains from showing through, and helps you achieve true, even colour.
Without primer, paint may soak unevenly into surfaces or fail to bond properly—leading to peeling, flaking, or dull patches over time.
Do you always need to prime before painting?
Not always—but in many cases, it’s highly recommended. Whether you need primer depends on the surface condition, the type of paint, and whether you’re changing colours or materials.
You should definitely prime when:
- Painting bare drywall, new wood, or metal
- Covering stains, smoke damage, or water marks
- Switching from dark to light colours
- Painting over oil-based paint with latex paint
- Painting surfaces that are glossy, uneven, or previously unpainted
If your walls are already in good condition and you’re repainting with the same colour and sheen, you may be able to skip primer—especially if you use a paint-and-primer-in-one formula available at Randall’s Paint Collections
What surfaces always require primer?
Bare drywall
Drywall absorbs paint unevenly. A drywall primer seals the surface and prevents blotchy finishes.
New wood
Raw wood releases tannins that can bleed through paint. Use a stain-blocking primer to prevent discoloration and ensure even coverage.
Metal surfaces
Metal needs primer to prevent rust and improve adhesion. Choose a rust-inhibiting or specialty metal primer.
Concrete or masonry
Porous surfaces like concrete need primer to reduce absorption and achieve a consistent finish.
Glossy or slick surfaces
Always degloss and prime shiny finishes like lacquer, tile, or laminate to help paint grip.
When can you skip primer?
You can safely skip primer when:
- Repainting a clean, well-adhered latex surface in a similar colour
- Using a high-quality paint-and-primer combo on smooth walls
- Refreshing walls in good condition with no stains or gloss
Even then, applying a light primer coat often leads to better coverage and a more polished finish.
What happens if you skip primer when you shouldn’t?
Skipping primer on surfaces that need it can cause several problems:
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Uneven colour absorption and patchy results
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Peeling or flaking over time
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Stains or marks bleeding through new paint
- Reduced paint lifespan and poor durability
Taking a few extra minutes to prime can save you from costly touch-ups later.
How do I choose the right primer?
Select your primer based on the surface and paint type:
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Latex primer: Best for drywall, plaster, and previously painted walls.
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Oil-based primer: Ideal for wood, stained areas, and surfaces needing stain-blocking.
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Shellac-based primer: Provides maximum adhesion and stain resistance.
- Bonding primer: Designed for glossy or hard-to-paint surfaces.
Randall’s offers a variety of premium primers and sealers to match your specific project needs. Explore them in the Collections
Can primer be tinted to match paint colour?
Yes. Tinting primer to a lighter shade of your paint colour can enhance coverage and reduce the number of paint coats needed—especially when switching from dark to light tones.
How long should primer dry before painting?
Most primers require 1 to 4 hours of drying time before applying paint, though it can vary by product and humidity levels. Always check the manufacturer’s label for recommended drying times to ensure best results.
Should I hire a professional to handle priming and painting?
If your project involves mixed materials, moisture damage, or large wall surfaces, a professional can ensure your prep work is done right. Proper priming is the foundation of a long-lasting finish.
Explore Randall’s range of painting services and referrals on our Services Pageor fill out a Painter Order Formto be connected with a trusted expert.
Get Expert Help Choosing the Right Primer and Paint
Whether you’re tackling new drywall, repainting a kitchen, or restoring wood trim, choosing the right primer is key. Visit your nearest Randall’s store or Contact Usfor personalized product recommendations and advice from our paint specialists.
Shop high-performance primers, paints, and tools in our Collectionsfor professional results every time.
Start strong, finish beautifully—Randall’s has the perfect primer and paint combination for every surface in your home.